Tackling and collisions have received a significant boost thanks to the addition of physics-based mechanics. This not only adds realism but also makes each hit feel earned. No more animation-based randomness — now, weight, angle, and timing matter.

The Energy of College Football: Fully Realized

One of the most noticeable upgrades is in-game presentation. Entrances, in particular, have been enhanced to better represent each school’s traditions. Virginia Tech’s crowd erupts to College Football 26 Coins “Enter Sandman,” while South Carolina bursts onto the field with the drama of “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “Sandstorm.” These sequences, along with dynamic camera angles and crowd chants, truly sell the pageantry of college football.

More mascots, crowd participation, and sideline authenticity also help deepen immersion. Add in the presence of real-life coaches and improved announcer commentary, and CFB 26 takes major strides in making every game feel like a big-time broadcast.

Defense: Finally Worth Playing

In previous iterations, defense often felt like a chore or something to be avoided through super sim. That’s changed. The newly implemented physics-based tackling — previously seen in Madden 25 — now plays a starring role here. Hit sticks are no longer coin flips, and defenders behave with purpose. Big defenders overpower smaller players, while smaller defenders struggle to bring down power backs, just as they should.

Defensive line play has been significantly revamped as well. Players can use the left stick while engaged to shed blocks, giving you more agency. You also get the option to call specific line stunts for every play, which opens up a new layer of defensive creativity.

Even if you're not usually a fan of controlling defenders, CFB 26 may change your mind.

Running Game Overhaul

Perhaps the most frustrating part of last year’s game was the running game. Offensive linemen would frequently ignore defenders and block into empty space, making it difficult to CUT 26 Coins for sale build any consistent rushing attack. This year, that’s been fixed. The new blocking AI understands the play call, anticipates defenders’ movements, and stays engaged. Guards and tackles actually pick up the right assignments.